History Beach Walk: Butler Beach

Butler Beach is a historically significant place in St. Augustine and St. Johns County.

Frank Butler — businessman, political and civic leader, and Florida’s first black citizen to serve on a grand jury — founded the beach in 1927 after becoming frustrated with the injustice of “whites-only” beaches. He began purchasing oceanfront property on Anastasia Island, eventually acquiring a tract from the Atlantic to the Matanzas River.

Butler Beach became the first beach between Daytona and Jacksonville where African Americans could freely enjoy the surf, sun, and sand. Several Civil Rights demonstrations took place on Butler Beach in the 1960s.

St. Johns County Parks & Rec will lead a tour of Butler Beach, starting a Frank Butler Park East, 5680 A1A S. This historical tour is suitable for all ages and will take guests onto the beach. The sand is well-packed for easy walking, but please wear comfortable shoes.

Click here to register.